Hamilton's DNA in New Ferrari Car: Revved Up for 2026 F1 Season
Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, is radiating positivity and optimism as he gears up for the 2026 Formula One season with Ferrari. During pre-season testing in Bahrain, Hamilton shared a lighthearted moment with rival Max Verstappen, but his focus is firmly on a fresh start with the Italian team after a challenging debut year.
From Nightmare to Newfound Connection
Hamilton's first season with Ferrari in 2025 was a stark departure from his usual success. He failed to secure a podium finish for the first time in his illustrious career, ending up sixth in the drivers' championship, behind teammate Charles Leclerc in fifth. By the season's close, Hamilton openly described the experience as a "nightmare," expressing clear disappointment and criticism.
However, the winter break has brought a significant turnaround. Hamilton has spent considerable time rebuilding and refocusing, both physically and mentally. "I've obviously gone through quite a bit and you know left everything, all of last year behind me," he stated. "I spent a lot of time rebuilding over this winter, refocusing, really getting my body and my mind to a much better place. I generally feel personally in the best place that I've been in a long time with rearranging things within my team."
A Car with Hamilton's DNA
A key factor in Hamilton's renewed enthusiasm is the new Ferrari car for the 2026 season. Unlike last year, when he inherited a car designed under stable regulations, Hamilton has been actively involved in its development for nearly a year. "Last year we were locked into a car that ultimately I inherited," he explained. "This is a car that I've been able to be a part of developing on the simulator for the last 10 months, eight months and so like a bit of my DNA is within it, so I'm more connected to this one for sure."
This hands-on involvement has fostered a deeper connection, with Hamilton asserting that his DNA is embedded in the vehicle, making him more invested in its performance.
Long-Term Commitment to Ferrari
Despite the struggles of 2025, Hamilton remains steadfast in his commitment to Ferrari, viewing it as a long-term project. "My belief in the team is still absolutely the same," he affirmed. "I understand the faith in this team and what they're capable of and that's why I joined the team."
He acknowledged that success wouldn't come overnight, which influenced his decision to sign a longer contract. "I knew it wasn't gonna be an overnight thing where we'd have success immediately, that's why I signed a longer deal, because I knew it was a process and I feel like we've also learned a huge amount from last year as a team."
FIA Addresses Engine Controversy
In related F1 news, the sport's governing body, the FIA, is moving to resolve a contentious issue involving Mercedes' engine. Mercedes has been exploiting a loophole in the regulations by using a higher compression ratio than the mandated 16:1, as the measurement is taken when the engine is "cold" at ambient temperatures. This has drawn ire from rival manufacturers who view it as an unfair advantage, albeit within the rules.
The FIA's power unit advisory committee has proposed a rule change effective August 1, 2026, after 13 of the season's 24 races. Under the new proposal, the compression ratio would also be measured at a representative operating temperature of 130°C. A vote on this change is expected within the next 10 days, requiring a super-majority of five out of seven committee members, which includes the FIA, F1, and the five manufacturers: Mercedes, Ferrari, Red Bull, Audi, and Honda.
As the 2026 season approaches, Hamilton's upbeat demeanor and deeper involvement with Ferrari signal a determined comeback, while the FIA's regulatory adjustments aim to level the playing field in the high-stakes world of Formula One.
